Île des Cygnes (former island)

The Île des Cygnes (Island of the Swans) was an island in the Seine River in Paris, France. It was located near the Champ de Mars, downstream from the Île de la Cité.

The island was not natural. It was formed in 1769 during the construction of the École Militaire. Land excavated to create the parade ground was used to build a dyke extending from the Gros Caillou bank. This dyke was then connected to the bank, forming the Île des Cygnes.

The primary purpose of the island was to facilitate the mooring of timber rafts. It also served to narrow the river channel, thus increasing the water's velocity and helping to prevent silt buildup.

The Île des Cygnes was connected to the Right Bank by a wooden bridge. It was a popular spot for strolling and enjoying views of the river.

The original Île des Cygnes no longer exists. During the construction of the Pont de Bir-Hakeim and the extension of the embankment on the Left Bank (quai Branly) in the late 19th century, the island was attached to the Left Bank and effectively disappeared. The current Île des Cygnes, located further downstream and featuring a replica of the Statue of Liberty, is a completely separate and artificial island created later. The present-day island shares only the name with the historical one.